Neil Khandke told FoodManufacture.co.uk, at the official opening of 2 Sister’s foodborne germ detection lab in Nottingham, that the site will provide a pool of food technologists and help graduates prepare for industry-leading roles.
“This is obviously an important factor to grow talent because there is a problem at the moment. Fewer people are taking food and drink courses at university and coming into food technology,” he said.
‘Numerous benefits
Watch this video for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the microbiologists at work inside the new lab. The decision to expand the laboratory was made after 2 Sisters acquired the Northern Foods business in 2011. The new lab will employ 60 people and can conduct 16,000 tests a week.
Speaking at the official opening of the lab last week (September 23) 2 Sisters’ boss Ranjit Boparan said the lab would also help to reduce and eradicate campylobacter.
Meanwhile, the latest food safety issues will be tackled when Food Manufacture hosts a one-day food safety conference on Thursday October 17 at the National Motorcycle Museum, near Birmingham.
Speakers include FSA director of operations Andrew Rhodes, David Brackston, technical director of the British Retail Consortium, and Sue Davies, chief policy advisor at consumer group Which?.
For more information, click here.